Your Complete Guide to Estate Planning in Texas
Protect your family, your assets, and your future with a clear and customized estate plan.
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At The Law Office of Robert Tsai, we help Texans create customized estate plans that secure their future and simplify the legal process for their loved ones.
Whether you need a will, a trust, or guidance through probate, this guide covers everything you need to know to start planning today.
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Why Estate Planning Matters in Texas
Estate planning is more than just preparing for the unexpected—it’s about protecting what matters most.
A clear estate plan ensures your wishes are respected, your loved ones are cared for, and your assets are transferred smoothly, without unnecessary delays or disputes.
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Our experienced attorneys in Dallas and across Texas provide personalized guidance to help you design a plan that fits your unique goals.
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The Key Components of a Texas Estate Plan
An effective estate plan includes several essential documents that work together to protect your interests:
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Wills (Last Will and Testament)
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Trusts (Revocable and Irrevocable)
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Powers of Attorney (Financial and Medical)
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Lady Bird Deeds (Enhanced Life Estate Deeds)
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Each plays a different role in ensuring your wishes are carried out — and links to a detailed page for deeper guidance.
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Wills in Texas
A Last Will and Testament defines how your assets will be distributed after your passing and who will care for any minor children.
Without a will, the state determines these matters for you, which can create unnecessary stress for your family.
Our attorneys help ensure your will is legally valid under Texas law and reflects your true intentions.
Learn more about creating a will →
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Trusts in Texas
A trust allows you to protect and manage your assets during your lifetime and control how they’re distributed afterward.
Trusts can help you avoid probate, maintain privacy, and provide tax advantages for your beneficiaries.
We can help you determine whether a revocable or irrevocable trust best fits your estate planning goals.
Explore trust options in Texas →
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Powers of Attorney
A Power of Attorney (POA) lets you appoint someone you trust to make important decisions on your behalf if you’re unable to do so.
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Financial Power of Attorney – Allows your representative to manage your assets and transactions.
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Medical Power of Attorney – Designates someone to make healthcare decisions for you.
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Find out which Power of Attorney you need →
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Lady Bird Deeds in Texas
A Lady Bird Deed (also known as an Enhanced Life Estate Deed) allows you to transfer real estate to your heirs while keeping full control of your property during your lifetime.
This tool helps Texans avoid probate, protect Medicaid eligibility, and simplify property transfers after death.
Read our full guide on Lady Bird Deeds →
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How Our Firm Helps You Build an Estate Plan
Our estate planning process is designed to be clear, efficient, and completely tailored to you:
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Initial Consultation – We discuss your goals and assess your current documents.
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Strategy & Drafting – We create customized wills, trusts, and other legal tools.
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Review & Execution – We finalize your plan and ensure it’s properly signed and notarized.
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Ongoing Support – We’re available to update or adjust your plan as your life changes.
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FAQs About Estate Planning in Texas
What happens if I die without a will in Texas?
Your assets will be distributed under Texas intestacy laws — not necessarily according to your wishes.
How can I avoid probate?
Using trusts, Lady Bird deeds, and beneficiary designations can help bypass or simplify probate.
Are Lady Bird deeds valid in all Texas counties?
Yes, Lady Bird deeds are recognized across Texas, but the recording process can vary by county.
When should I update my estate plan?
We recommend reviewing it after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, or a significant change in assets.
Start Planning Your Legacy Today
Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated.
Our attorneys make it simple to protect your family, minimize taxes, and ensure your wishes are respected.
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Take the first step toward peace of mind today.
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